How can academic research better address the pressing needs of a nation? In Lomé, university leaders from Togo’s UNESCO-recognized research chairs gathered on July 9, 2026, to explore this very question. Convened by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, the meeting provided a platform to assess ongoing initiatives and chart a new strategic path to amplify the impact of scientific research on the country’s sustainable development goals.
Forging stronger university partnerships for national progress
Under the chairmanship of Prof. Gado Tchangbedji, Minister Delegate for Higher Education and Scientific Research, the session brought together representatives from the National Commission for UNESCO in Togo and heads of the country’s leading UNESCO-affiliated chairs. These academic hubs are strategically distributed across public universities, each focusing on critical areas of national importance.
Key UNESCO chairs shaping Togo’s future
The gathering highlighted the contributions of several prominent chairs, including:
- Renewable Energy Chair at the University of Lomé, advancing clean energy solutions tailored to Togo’s energy transition.
- Women, Science and Water Management Chair at the University of Lomé, promoting equitable access to water resources and gender-inclusive scientific research in West Africa.
- ICT and Higher Education Development Chair at the University of Kara, driving digital transformation in teaching and learning across the region.
Transforming research into tangible development outcomes
During the discussions, participants evaluated the progress of ongoing projects, identified operational challenges, and assessed how these initiatives align with national policy priorities. The overarching goal remains clear: to strengthen the role of UNESCO chairs as catalysts for addressing Togo’s most pressing challenges—from renewable energy adoption to sustainable water management, gender equality in science, and digital innovation in education.
Strengthening collaboration to boost research impact
The meeting concluded with a series of actionable recommendations designed to enhance coordination and effectiveness within the UNESCO chair network. Key proposals included the establishment of a shared digital platform linking the National Commission for UNESCO in Togo with the chairs. This platform aims to streamline knowledge exchange, align activities, and foster joint projects that deliver real-world benefits.
Participants also emphasized the need to deepen collaboration among academic institutions and engage new technical and financial partners to support research initiatives. By fostering a more integrated ecosystem, Togo seeks to unlock the full potential of its scientific community.
Government urges research aligned with national priorities
In his closing remarks, Prof. Gado Tchangbedji stressed the importance of aligning research agendas with the country’s development priorities. He underscored that scientific inquiry must yield concrete results—ones that directly inform public policy and contribute to economic and social transformation. The minister called for a new phase of collaboration, one that bridges researchers, universities, and national institutions in pursuit of shared national goals.
Building a stronger, more influential research network
This landmark meeting reflects the government’s commitment to harnessing the intellectual capital within Togo’s public universities. By reinforcing connections between UNESCO chairs, expanding partnerships, and steering research toward national needs, the country aims to build a robust scientific ecosystem. The ambition is clear: to position research as a driver of innovation, sustainable growth, and long-term prosperity for all Togolese.
